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Generalised Anxiety Disorder
Generalised anxiety disorder is ongoing, excessive worry about many everyday things that is hard to control and affects daily life. It is common and responds well to treatment.
Causes & risk factors
- A mix of personality, life experiences and biology
- Ongoing stress or difficult life events
- Family history of anxiety
- Some physical conditions such as thyroid problems
- Caffeine, alcohol or drug use
Common symptoms
- Excessive, hard-to-control worry
- Restlessness or feeling on edge
- Tiredness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Muscle tension
- Poor sleep
- Palpitations
Tests & diagnosis
- Clinical assessment and anxiety questionnaires
- Thyroid function
- Blood count
Treatment & management
- Talking therapy such as cognitive behavioural therapy
- Relaxation, breathing and mindfulness techniques
- Medicines for anxiety when appropriate
- Reducing caffeine and alcohol
- Regular exercise, sleep and self-care
When to see a doctor urgently
- Thoughts of harming yourself — get help immediately: contact a crisis line or call your local emergency number now
- Worry that is constant and affecting work, sleep or relationships
- Physical symptoms such as palpitations that concern you
- Anxiety that is not improving with self-help
Frequently asked questions
How is this different from normal worry?
Everyone worries at times. In generalised anxiety disorder the worry is excessive, hard to control and present most days, and it interferes with daily life and often causes physical symptoms.
Can anxiety be treated?
Yes, very effectively. Talking therapies, relaxation techniques and, when needed, medicines help most people gain control. Reaching out early makes a real difference.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.